Meet Robert

Let’s start off by learning a bit more about your life prior to Pega. Where are you from originally and what is your educational background?
I found my passion for computers and anything technology related in high school while watching the world change around me electronically. Seeing major advancements in cell phones, computers, video games, and the internet, I tailored my elected high school studies to anything math or computer driven. I enrolled into any STEM related program my school offered with the intent to better prepare myself for a career in the IT industry.

After graduating high school, I wanted to leave the small city I grew up in and travel, but still wanted to follow my passion in computers. I came from a single parent household, so paying for college and travel was out of my budget. I contacted an Army National Guard Recruiter and realized I could take advantage of all the benefits the service had to offer

Now serving in the National Guard for a little over 10 years, my primary job is  Air Defense Battle Management Systems Operator. In this role, I set up and monitor secure military computer networks that passes encrypted radar data to different Air Defense Missile Systems. I have completed three mobilizations in the Washington D.C. area for the National Capital Region Integrated Air Defense Sector (NCR-IADS).

During my service, I also wanted to complete a civilian education and decided to pursue a degree in Computer Science.  I enrolled into Hillsborough Community College completing my Associates in Computer Science and Engineering. I later enrolled into Saint Leo University and completed my bachelors in Computer Science taking many classes in Object Oriented programming languages.

"After completing my Certified Systems Architect certification and working as a Pega developer, I quickly realized the power and impact Pega can have on a business."

What motivated you to learn how to use Pega?
I was first introduced to PEGA by Legerity and was immediately intrigued. Being in the networking side of the IT Industry and a recent Computer Science graduate, this was my first interaction with a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. The concept of being able to produce software in a fast and efficient manner with a low code/no code approach seemed revolutionary.

How has Pega shaped or impacted your career?
In my career as a Pega developer, I have been able to branch out of the hardware aspect of computer networks and dive into software development. Pega enables me to implement my creativity in developing without having to worry as much about complex code or algorithms like coding in traditional programming languages. This allows me to focus on the overall project goals of my team and not as much on repetitive tasks such as debugging.

How is Pega changing the organization where you work?
After completing my Certified Systems Architect certification and working as a Pega developer, I quickly realized the power and impact Pega can have on a business. With my current employer’s use of Pega, we are able to deliver applications at a rapid pace while also updating any previous applications that have been used in the past. This dynamic approach saves my company time, money, and resources, all while delivering effective applications.

What message or advice would you give to anyone who is considering a career as a Pega Developer?
Earning your Pega certification can be stressful. Stick with it! Seek guidance from developers who have been through the certification process. Having a good programming logic mindset is very helpful, the logic of programming will help you obtain a better understanding of the platform as you are starting out.